Redbreast

When it comes to the endearing birds of Britain, there are few that can beat the European Robin (Erithacus rubecula). These are delicate little creatures, only about half the size of the American brutes given the "robin" moniker by homesick colonials. Our garden robins have been busy this summer. Their first nest failed for reasons unknown (though we suspect the neighbour's free-ranging cats may be to blame), but they successfully fledged at least a few youngsters on their second try. And now they're busy kicking those youngsters out of the area, which has led to lots of conflict and lots of singing over the past week or so.

One of the things that makes this species so well-loved is their absolute fearlessness. When we're working in the garden, they're often hovering just around our feet (or spade), waiting to see what tasty morsel we might dig up. They're widespread in Britain, with a population estimated at 6 million (!!) breeding pairs. Their somewhat melancholy songs are a regular part of our garden soundtrack, even now, when most other species have stopped singing — a welcome reminder of summer as the relative silence of winter approaches.